Power Half Hour: Navigating Dietary Needs at Conferences with Lauren Ramsey
Crack open a cold one and get ready for the next Power Half Hour, where Lauren Ramsey joins hosts Rocio, and Gregory Lauren has planned and attended large scale conferences and events all while managing some major dietary restrictions, tune-in and hear her share her good and bad experiences at events!
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
Lauren shares her personal experience with dietary needs at conferences, from frustrating situations where nothing on the menu is accommodating to heartwarming moments where thoughtful planning made all the difference. One of the key insights from Lauren is that
"Navigating dietary needs doesn’t have to be a struggle if you plan in advance and communicate well."
This proactive approach can make all the difference when it comes to creating a seamless event experience for everyone involved. From gluten-free meals to vegetarian options, Lauren highlights both the challenges and the triumphs of attending events while managing dietary needs.
"Inclusivity in event catering isn’t just about providing alternatives—it’s about making every attendee feel welcome," says Gregory Perrine, echoing one of the big takeaways from his conversation with Regina Panza, and reinforcing the importance of thoughtful planning.
Lauren’s experience at one particular conference illustrates just how much a lack of planning can disrupt the attendee experience. She recalls an event where she was promised a gluten-free option, only to be left without a suitable meal, and how that affected her entire day. She stresses that clear communication in advance is key to avoiding such issues, noting that
"You’re not just feeding people—you’re helping them feel seen and respected, and that’s something they will remember."
As an event planner, it’s easy to overlook the complexity of dietary accommodations, but this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and how they can be managed effectively. By ensuring menus are well-labeled, providing proper follow-up, and embracing flexibility, planners can create smoother event experiences for all. The conversation also highlights the importance of dedicated culinary teams and making sure that dietary requirements are included in the BEO (Banquet Event Order).
Lauren’s first-hand experiences demonstrate that event organizers can take proactive steps to accommodate all attendees, regardless of their dietary preferences or allergies. And when planners do get it right, the impact is significant. "The best part is knowing that someone is thinking ahead to make sure your needs are met so you can enjoy the event like everyone else," Lauren adds.
Want to learn more about how you can optimize event planning for dietary needs? Head to Pholeo.io to discover how our platform streamlines event logistics and takes the stress out of the planning process!
Episode Highlights:
Lauren’s experience navigating event meals with her gluten and meat allergies.
The importance of thoughtful, inclusive menu options.
A fun story about an event gone wrong (and how it could’ve been prevented).
Best practices for event planners to ensure dietary needs are met without hassle.
If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, like, and share it with your fellow event planners. Have your own dietary event planning stories or tips? We’d love to hear them! Share them with us on social media or comment below.
Stay tuned for more insights into making event logistics a breeze, all while ensuring your attendees have the best experience possible!
